Flintlock vs. Matchlock: What's the Difference?

Flintlock and Matchlock Definitions
Flintlock
An obsolete gunlock in which a flint fixed in the hammer produces a spark that ignites the charge.
Matchlock
A gunlock in which powder is ignited by a match.
Flintlock
A firearm having this type of gunlock.
Matchlock
A musket having such a gunlock.
Flintlock
An early type of firearm, using a spring-loaded flint to strike sparks into the firing pan.
ADVERTISEMENT
Matchlock
Early type of firearm, using a smoldering piece of cord to fire the powder in the firing pan.
Flintlock
A type of lock used on muskets, rifles, and pistols from the early 17th to the mid-19th century.
Matchlock
The gunlock used in such a weapon, having a slow smouldering match, see: slow match.
Flintlock
A lock for a gun or pistol, having a flint fixed in the hammer, which on striking the steel ignites the priming.
Matchlock
An old form of gunlock containing a match for firing the priming; hence, a musket fired by means of a match.
ADVERTISEMENT
Flintlock
A hand firearm fitted with a flintlock; esp., the old-fashioned musket of European and other armies.
Matchlock
An early style of musket; had a slow burning wick that could be lowered into a hole in the breech to ignite the charge
Flintlock
A muzzle loader having a flintlock type of gunlock
Flintlock
A gunlock that has flint embedded in the hammer; the flint makes a spark that ignites the charge